Lights, camera, action: Our top six ‘set-jetting’ film destinations
Whether you’re as adventurous as Indiana Jones, or a curious, first-time traveller like Alice on her way to Wonderland, these spots are perfect for a cinema-themed escape.
The allure of standing in the footsteps of your favourite film characters and witnessing the same thrilling landscapes as they did is undeniable. From striking temples intertwined with rich culture to blissful peace amongst the shores of sparkling lakes, many renowned fictional characters have travelled around the world to live out their perfect story – and now it’s your turn.
From Europe’s impressive historical sites to the bright lights of the United States’ most famous cities, go beyond the silver screen and consider visiting one of these six iconic destinations from film.
Game of Thrones, Croatia
A perfect blend of scenic island vistas and historic coastal towns, Croatia makes for an idyllic holiday haven. Fans of HBO’s hit TV series, Game of Thrones, might recognise this warm, welcoming land as the inspiration and filming location for many of the show’s scenes.
Wander through the medieval old town and picture yourself in King’s Landing, the fictional capital of the Seven Kingdoms, with a stop in Dubrovnik. With its impressive carved forts and ancient city walls, the city famously didn’t need any camera wizardry or special effects during filming - its breath-taking sites speak for themselves.
Skyfall, Istanbul
Stand in the shoes of 007, the UK’s most iconic gentleman spy, and marvel at the treasures of some of Europe’s most influential empires – Istanbul. As the former imperial capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, the city promises immersive cultural experiences and architectural wonders aplenty amongst its bustling streets. Having featured in the 2012 Bond film, Skyfall, Istanbul is the perfect spot to soak in the same classical sites as 007, from the unforgettable treasures of the Topkapi Palace to the world’s largest covered bazaar.
Don’t miss out on savouring some of Turkey’s unique flavours – sample the local Turkish food and follow in Bond’s footsteps with a tour of the Grand Bazaar – minus the high-speed car chases!
Breakfast at Tiffany’s, New York
While New York City could have been picked for any number of Hollywood, from the 1930s creature-feature, King Kong, to the blockbuster flings of the world’s mightiest superheroes, Audrey Hepburn’s Breakfast at Tiffany’s was just too good to miss.
Channel your inner Holly Golightly in one of the most exciting cities in the world, also known as ‘The City That Never Sleeps’, and gaze at the same Art-Deco skyscrapers and colourful streets that are featured in the film. On 5th Avenue, you can also find The BlueBox Cafe, bringing breakfast at Tiffany’s into reality, and try the seasonal menus at this Michelin-starred restaurant.
Star Wars, Lake Como
The magical beauty of Lake Como, with its majestic alpine scenery and pristine waters surrounded by looming mountains, attracts people from around the world all year-round. An extraordinary marriage between Italian architecture and nature, it's no surprise that this location was chosen as the backdrop for the wedding between characters Anakin Skywalker and Padme Amidala in Star Wars: Attack of the Clones.
You can also experience another Star Wars location by traversing onto charming Ireland. Specifically, catch sight of the marvellous Skellig Michael from the shores of Ring of Kerry, also known as Ahch-To in The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi, Luke Skywalker’s Island Sanctuary.
Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, Cambodia
Explore the memorable scenes showcased in Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, housed within the ancient ruins of the Khmer Empire, with a trip to Cambodia and witness the same monumental structures that give the film its poignant backdrop. Along the way, take in the carved rock faces of the astounding Bayon Temple and the world’s largest religious structure, Angkor Wat.
With a warm and welcoming atmosphere, Cambodia is also an ideal destination for both solo and group tours and you can immerse yourself in the lifestyles of the locals while making your way across its verdant rural stretches and glittering cityscapes.
Paddington in Peru, Peru
Head to South America in the footsteps of the nation’s favourite bear, Paddington, on his new adventure to captivating Peru where ancient mythology is brought to life. Take in the vibrant capital of Lima, with its lively streets and delicious cuisine, before heading towards one of the Seven Wonders of the World: Machu Picchu.
Like Paddington, you’ll learn about Peruvian history and its treasures in the shadow of ancient Incan citadels, witnessing the lives of the locals in the Sacred Valley. Why not bring a marmalade sandwich with you as well!
Discover your next holiday with Newmarket Holidays
Ready to go beyond the cinema screens? There are plenty of destinations scattered around the globe that feature in the glamorous world of film. To get your set-jetting escape underway, give one of our friendly holiday planners a call or visit our website for more details on these colourful destinations.
